Protocol

A protocol is a rule or code of formally correct behaviour, especially
describing how an activity should be performed. In D/s, protocol is
usually symbolic of submission and is
therefore
a type of ritual.

Protocol is more specific than etiquette, which
may also apply to informal environments.

Many different and often contradictory protocols exist in D/s circles,
and it is better to speak of "my protocol" or refer to a protocol by a
name (eg Roissy protocol) than refer to "protocol".
Different protocols are conveniently defined and compared by writing a
protocol schema - a systematic description
of the Classes, Dress and symbols, Speech rules, and Deportment
involved.